Berlusconi supporters walked out of the Senate in a protest against an Italian government official criticizing Berlusconi, and his party has now withdrawn support for the current prime minister's coalition, which may spur new elections sooner than the April elections currently planned.

This is, mind you, the same Berlusconi who was JUST found guilty of tax fraud and sentenced to jail time in, like, October. So he probably wasn't going to serve any time – fine. Whatever. It's Italy, that's not surprising. But now his party is threatening the current government and he's talking about running again?

Italy, really. WHAT. THE. FUCK. Even if it's not surprising, it's still irritating. I hope there's a public outcry and Silvio's stupid sycophants get shouted down, but I'll admit that I'm not optimistic.

Rome mayor steps in to rescue cat colonyI was sad to hear that the sanctuary for stray cats at the Torre Argentina ruins in central Rome was facing eviction, but it sounds like Rome's mayor is on the side of the cats. That's a huge relief.

The Argument Against Pound-Foolish TravelThis is an excellent piece on the danger of crossing the line "from frugal traveler to irrational cheapskate." Yes, there are good reasons to be a bargain-hunter when traveling – and there are also times when saving money just because you can is kind of stupid.

Chill Your Cocktails With Boozy CubesGenius. Freeze Manhattan ingredients in ice cubes, drop said cube into a glass of bourbon, and VOILA. Instant cocktail that just gets better as you sip. GENIUS, I SAY.